DUNMORE, Pa. — A tragic incident in a quiet neighborhood has left one man dead following a confrontation with his son. Authorities report that Frederick Zantowsky Jr., 47, was shot Sunday evening, prompting an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the case.
Officers from the Dunmore Police Department responded to a report of a domestic disturbance at 401 Mortimer St. shortly after 8:30 p.m. Upon arrival, they discovered Zantowsky suffering from a gunshot wound. Paramedics transported him to Geisinger Community Medical Center, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
According to Lackawanna County District Attorney Brian Gallagher, the shooting involved Zantowsky’s son, who remains unnamed and whose age has not been disclosed. Following the incident, police detained the young man at the scene but released him after preliminary questioning as the investigation continues.
Gallagher indicated that Zantowsky appeared intoxicated and had allegedly threatened family members—including an 8-year-old child—by brandishing a firearm during the altercation. “The deceased’s son fired his own weapon one time, striking the victim,” Gallagher said, adding that investigators are looking into claims that the shooting was a form of self-defense.
Authorities believe this incident was isolated and that there is no ongoing danger to the community. The death is under review by the Lackawanna County coroner’s office, which will determine the official cause and manner of death.
The scene was a focal point of response from various agencies, including the Lackawanna County District Attorney’s Office, state police forensic units, and local ambulance services. Together, they supported Dunmore officers in assessing the situation.
Detectives from the Dunmore Police Department are actively pursuing a detailed investigation, and the district attorney’s office is closely monitoring the developments. The community is left in shock as officials work to uncover the full details surrounding this tragic event.